I want to purchase an Apple TV as an audio only device to take the output signal from my amplifier using either analog RCA plugs or digital optical cable so I can send the sound signal to a Homepod. How do I do this?
HomePod speakers are self-contained active (smart) speakers and already have built-in amplification. Not sure what sources you have in mind for this, but it has to come from a server, computer, mobile device, or Apple TV box.
HomePod speakers only take input from the home network (either from the internet directly (Apple Music, including select radio stations), or from compatible (Apple) devices on your home network (AirPlay).
The Apple TV box is designed to be operated with a TV screen. Not audio-only. The Apple TV box only takes input from the home network, through on-device apps. It has no audio connectors for input. The legacy models used to have audio connectors for output only, not input.
HomePod user guide - Apple Support
HomePod (1st generation) [2018] technical specifications - Apple Support
HomePod mini [2020] technical specifications - Apple Support
HomePod (2nd generation) [2023] technical specifications - Apple Support
HomePod speakers are self-contained active (smart) speakers and already have built-in amplification. Not sure what sources you have in mind for this, but it has to come from a server, computer, mobile device, or Apple TV box.
HomePod speakers only take input from the home network (either from the internet directly (Apple Music, including select radio stations), or from compatible (Apple) devices on your home network (AirPlay).
The Apple TV box is designed to be operated with a TV screen. Not audio-only. The Apple TV box only takes input from the home network, through on-device apps. It has no audio connectors for input. The legacy models used to have audio connectors for output only, not input.
HomePod user guide - Apple Support
HomePod (1st generation) [2018] technical specifications - Apple Support
HomePod mini [2020] technical specifications - Apple Support
HomePod (2nd generation) [2023] technical specifications - Apple Support
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Getting Apple TV to accept an audio input from a Hi Fi amplifier
